Mubarak back in Test squad for Pakistan series

Jehan Mubarak has made a comeback to the Sri Lanka Test squad after nearly eight years, for the upcoming home series against Pakistan. Three younger players were also included in the 16-man squad: offspinner Tharindu Kaushal, uncapped fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera and left-handed batsman Kusal Perera.

Fast bowler Shaminda Eranga was not considered because of a back injury while Suranga Lakmal’s inclusion will depend on the speed of his recovery from a groin complaint.

Mubarak, 34, last played a Test in 2007 and was in firm contention for a place in the Test squad after scoring over 1000 domestic runs in each of the two past seasons, and averaging 81.78 in the Premier League Tournament since the beginning of 2014. His fielding recently also caught the eye of Jonty Rhodes during the former South African’s 10-day training camp in Sri Lanka.